Global South
AI Education.

Why the Global South Matters to SHE IS AI.

Bridging the Digital Divide

Globally, 2.6 billion people remain offline — most of them in the Global South (International Telecommunication Union, 2023). Internet access is as low as 36% in Sub-Saharan Africa, compared to over 90% in Europe and North America. Without intervention, this digital divide will deepen inequality in education, work, and innovation.

SHE IS AI is committed to closing this gap by building AI Education Hubs that bring training, digital tools, and opportunities directly into underserved communities.

Youth Population Growth.

Africa and Asia are home to the world’s fastest-growing youth populations. By 2050, Africa will account for one in three people under 25 globally (UNICEF, 2023). Asia’s youth population already exceeds 750 million (UN ESCAP, 2022).

This generation represents extraordinary potential — but only if they are equipped with the skills to thrive in a digital, AI-driven economy. Our hubs empower youth to not only use AI, but to create, innovate, and lead with it.

Gender Gaps in STEM

Globally, women represent just 28% of the science and engineering workforce (UNESCO Science Report, 2021).

In Sub-Saharan Africa, women make up only 30% of STEM graduates, and even fewer transition into technology leadership roles. Social and cultural barriers continue to limit girls’ participation in digital education.

SHE IS AI changes this by creating inclusive spaces where women and girls access AI education, mentorship, and leadership pathways amplifying voices too often left behind.

Why AI Education is Critical in Emerging Markets.

AI is projected to add $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030 (PwC, 2018), yet without inclusive education, emerging markets risk being left as consumers rather than creators of this technology.

For the Global South, AI offers a “leapfrog opportunity” — to build new industries, transform agriculture, health, and education, and address urgent challenges such as climate change. But this can only happen if local innovators are equipped with the skills and ethical frameworks to shape AI that reflects their values and communities.

By investing in Global South AI education, we are investing in a more equitable, innovative, and sustainable future for all.

Sources

  • International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 2023: Measuring Digital Development: Facts and Figures

  • UNICEF, 2023: Global Population Projections

  • UN ESCAP, 2022: Asia and the Pacific Youth Report

  • UNESCO, 2021: Science Report: The Race Against Time for Smarter Development

  • PwC, 2018: Sizing the Prize: What’s the Real Value of AI for Your Business and How Can You Capitalise?